A reinforcement design methodology for highly stressed rock masses

Abstract

Ground support design is usually based on previous experience and evolves over a number of years. As the rock mass conditions change with an increasing depth, the ground support performance may change and become unacceptable. That is, the installed reinforcement capacities may not satisfy the rock mass demand. A methodology that allows rock reinforcement design for highly stressed rock masses where rock mass demand in terms of ranges of displacement and energy is compared with the WA School of Mines reinforcement capacity database is presented. It is concluded that acceptable bolts for a particular mining condition should have displacement compatibility with the rock mass, while providing higher energy dissipation.